Cardiology Coding Alert

Take a careful look at whether you may code the catheterization separately.A 2011 coronary stent session can require combining new codes with older options. Apply your skills to this sample case, and see how your choices compare to the analysis below.Get started: For this case, assume the cardiologist performed the procedure in a facility setting.Select Your Codes for the Sample CaseProcedures performed: Selective coronary angiography, right and left coronary arteries; contrast ventriculography with left heart catheterization; stenting of RCAIndications: Increasing angina, shortness of breath, abnormal stress test indicating myocardial disease.Approach: The procedure was performed from the right groin using Visipaque. Contrast was tolerated well, a total of 190 cc. The procedure was performed from the right groin using a 6-French catheter and sheath.Closure device: 6-French Angio-Seal.Description of Procedure: ... After satisfactory local anesthesia and sedation was achieved, the right femoral artery was accessed ... and a 6-French arterial sheath was [...]